After 27 Days In Captivity, Governor Makinde Uncovers Fresh Clue On Abducted Pupils’, Teachers Whereabouts

27 Days After School Abduction, Makinde Reveals Chilling Clue About Where Missing Pupils And Teachers May Be Hiding
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area are still believed to be within the vast Old Oyo National Park corridor, nearly a month after they were taken.
The governor made the revelation in his Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, as security agencies continue an intensive search operation 27 days after the shocking abduction.
Makinde described the situation as heartbreaking, acknowledging the anguish and uncertainty endured by families and communities since the victims were kidnapped.
“It is extremely difficult for me to even ask how you are doing. It has been 27 days since our children and teachers were forcefully taken from their schools,” the governor said.
He noted that for almost a month, families have lived without knowing the fate of their loved ones, while communities remain gripped by fear and anxiety.
Although he admitted that repeated assurances of a safe rescue may now sound difficult for many to believe, Makinde insisted that the government has not relented in its efforts.
“I know that many times I have said, ‘We will get them home safely.’ But I also know that having heard these words so often, without seeing that outcome yet, they may now sound hollow. Please trust that they are not. We are doing everything within our power to bring them home safely,” he stated.
While declining to reveal operational details, the governor assured residents that security agencies are pursuing every credible lead and taking all lawful steps necessary to secure the victims’ freedom.
In a significant update, Makinde revealed that intelligence reports suggest the abducted pupils and teachers remain somewhere within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis — a massive area stretching across parts of ten local government areas and covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.
According to him, the sheer size and difficult terrain of the region have posed major challenges to ongoing rescue operations.
“I mention this not to discourage anyone, but to help us understand the scale of the challenge before us,” he said, stressing that the crisis extends beyond Oriire Local Government Area and requires collective vigilance.
Addressing the families directly, the governor assured them that the victims remain the top priority of the state government and security agencies.
“To the parents, relatives, friends and colleagues of those still in captivity, your loved ones have not been forgotten. They remain at the centre of our efforts every single day,” he said.
Makinde also called on residents to support rescue efforts by reporting suspicious activities through the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, a toll-free emergency line available around the clock.
He further warned against spreading rumours and unverified information, noting that misinformation could jeopardise sensitive rescue operations.
The governor urged citizens to remain vigilant, support security agencies and continue praying for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
“Continue to pray for their safe return. Continue to remain vigilant. And continue to support the efforts of our security agencies as we work towards bringing every one of them home safely,” he added.